aromatherapy

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Aromatherapy is the art and science of using pure essential oils for healing and balance. Aromatherapy works by affecting our sense of smell to balance moods, lift spirits and even heal infections. Essential oils are made using flowers, plants, trees, shrubs and roots, and the peels of fruits. They can be inhaled or applied to the skin.

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Health care professionals use essential oils to help treat a variety of conditions, including headaches, insomnia, immune-system support, insect bites and other skin conditions. At Aurora Health care, we use essential oils to enhance our patients' well-being.

Popular essential oils include:

Lavender, which is used to alleviate anxiety, depression and grief, and to treat sleep problems. It’s also antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. It can be diffused as a scent or used in compresses, baths or massage.

Bergamot, which is used to alleviate depression and anxiety, for sleep disturbances and as a pain reliever (analgesic). It can be diffused as a scent, or used in compresses or massage.

Lemon, which is used to treat colds and flu and to increase alertness. It’s also antiviral and antiseptic. It can be diffused as a scent or used for massage.

Eucalyptus, which is used to treat sinus or muscle pain. Diffused in the air, it improves indoor air during cold and flu season. It’s antibacterial, antiviral and analgesic. Aside from diffusion, it’s used in compresses and massages.